Over 45 Builds for the Legendary 555 Chip (and the 556, 558)
The 555 timer IC, originally introduced by the Signetics Corporation around 1971, is sure to rank high among the most popular analog integrated circuits ever produced. Originally called the IC Time Machine, this chip has been used in many timer-related projects by countless people over decades.
This book is all about designing projects based on the 555 timer IC. Over 45 fully tested and documented projects are presented. All projects have been fully tested by the author by constructing them individually on a breadboard. You are not expected to have any programming experiences for constructing or using the projects given in the book. However, it’s definitely useful to have some knowledge of basic electronics and the use of a breadboard for constructing and testing electronic circuits.
Some of the projects in the book are:
Alternately Flashing Two LEDs
Changing LED Flashing Rate
Touch Sensor On/Off Switch
Switch On/Off Delay
Light-Dependent Sound
Dark/Light Switch
Tone Burst Generator
Long Duration Timer
Chasing LEDs
LED Roulette Game
Traffic Lights
Continuity Tester
Electronic Lock
Switch Contact Debouncing
Toy Electronic Organ
Multiple Sensor Alarm System
Metronome
Voltage Multipliers
Electronic Dice
7-Segment Display Counter
Motor Control
7-Segment Display Dice
Electronic Siren
Various Other Projects
The projects given in the book can be modified or expanded by you for your very own applications. Electronic engineering students, people engaged in designing small electronic circuits, and electronic hobbyists should find the projects in the book instructive, fun, interesting, and useful.
This bundle is all about designing projects based on the 555 timer IC. The book features over 45 fully tested and documented projects. Together with the kit, which contains more than 130 through-hole components, you can build all the projects described on a breadboard. The setup also makes it easy to modify and experiment with the projects.
Over 45 Builds for the Legendary 555 Chip (and the 556, 558)
Some of the projects in the book are:
Alternately Flashing Two LEDs
Changing LED Flashing Rate
Touch Sensor On/Off Switch
Switch On/Off Delay
Light-Dependent Sound
Dark/Light Switch
Tone Burst Generator
Long Duration Timer
Chasing LEDs
LED Roulette Game
Traffic Lights
Continuity Tester
Electronic Lock
Switch Contact Debouncing
Toy Electronic Organ
Multiple Sensor Alarm System
Metronome
Voltage Multipliers
Electronic Dice
7-Segment Display Counter
Motor Control
7-Segment Display Dice
Electronic Siren
Various Other Projects
Kit Contents
Resistors
1x 15 kΩ
1x 68 kΩ
2x 47 kΩ
1x 82 kΩ
2x 820 Ω
1x 8.2 kΩ
3x 10 kΩ
1x 1.8 kΩ
1x 6.8 kΩ
14x 2.2 kΩ
10x 680 Ω
1x 27 kΩ
1x 5.6 kΩ
1x 560 kΩ
1x 4.7 kΩ
1x 3.3 kΩ
3x 33 kΩ
1x 36 kΩ
2x 100 kΩ
5x 1 kΩ
1x 3.9 kΩ
2x 56 kΩ
2x 12 kΩ
1x 10 kΩ potentiometer
1x 1 MΩ potentiometer
2x 50 kΩ potentiometer
3x 20 kΩ potentiometer
1x 10 kΩ potentiometer
1x 10 kΩ potentiometer
1x 50 kΩ potentiometer
1x 100 kΩ potentiometer
1x 50 kΩ potentiometer
Capacitors
1x 0.33 μF
1x 1 μF
1x 10 nF
1x 22 nF
1x 47 nF
1x 100 nF
1x 10 μF electrolytic
1x 33 μF electrolytic
2x 100 μF electrolytic
LEDs
10x 5 mm red LED
10x 3 mm red LED
3x 3 mm yellow LED
3x 3 mm green LED
1x Common-cathode 7-segment LED
Semiconductors
3x 555 timer
1x CD4017 counter
1x CD4026 counter
1x CD4011 NAND gate
4x 1N4148 diode
1x IRFZ46N MOSFET
1x Thermistor
1x Light dependent resistor (LDR)
Miscellaneous
1x Passive buzzer
1x Active buzzer
1x SG90 servo
1x 8 Ω mini loudspeaker
1x 9 V DC brushed motor
1x 5 V relay
1x 9 V battery clip
7x Pushbutton switches
1x Breadboard
1x Breadboard jumper wires
Over 45 Builds for the Legendary 555 Chip (and the 556, 558)
The 555 timer IC, originally introduced by the Signetics Corporation around 1971, is sure to rank high among the most popular analog integrated circuits ever produced. Originally called the IC Time Machine, this chip has been used in many timer-related projects by countless people over decades.
This book is all about designing projects based on the 555 timer IC. Over 45 fully tested and documented projects are presented. All projects have been fully tested by the author by constructing them individually on a breadboard. You are not expected to have any programming experiences for constructing or using the projects given in the book. However, it’s definitely useful to have some knowledge of basic electronics and the use of a breadboard for constructing and testing electronic circuits.
Some of the projects in the book are:
Alternately Flashing Two LEDs
Changing LED Flashing Rate
Touch Sensor On/Off Switch
Switch On/Off Delay
Light-Dependent Sound
Dark/Light Switch
Tone Burst Generator
Long Duration Timer
Chasing LEDs
LED Roulette Game
Traffic Lights
Continuity Tester
Electronic Lock
Switch Contact Debouncing
Toy Electronic Organ
Multiple Sensor Alarm System
Metronome
Voltage Multipliers
Electronic Dice
7-Segment Display Counter
Motor Control
7-Segment Display Dice
Electronic Siren
Various Other Projects
The projects given in the book can be modified or expanded by you for your very own applications. Electronic engineering students, people engaged in designing small electronic circuits, and electronic hobbyists should find the projects in the book instructive, fun, interesting, and useful.
Build Your Own Vintage Radio Broadcaster
The Elektor AM Transmitter Kit allows streaming audio to vintage AM radio receivers. Based on a Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller module, the AM Transmitter can transmit on 32 frequencies in the AM band, from 500 kHz up to 1.6 MHz in 32 steps of approx. 35 kHz.
The frequency is selected with a potentiometer and shown on a 0.96" OLED display. A pushbutton allows toggles the transmitting mode between On and Off. The range of the transmitter depends on the antenna. The onboard antenna provides a range of a few centimeters, requiring the AM Transmitter to be placed close to or inside the radio. An external loop antenna (not included) can be connected to increase the range.
The Elektor AM Transmitter Kit comes as a kit of parts that you must solder to the board yourself.
Features
The board is compatible with a Hammond 1593N enclosure (not included).A 5 VDC power supply with micro-USB connector (e.g., an old phone charger) is needed to power the kit (not included). Current consumption is 100 mA.
The Arduino software (requiring Earle Philhower’s RP2040 Boards Package) for the Elektor AM Transmitter Kit plus more information is available at the Elektor Labs page of this project.
Component List
Resistors
R1, R4 = 100 Ω
R2, R3, R8 = 10 kΩ
R5, R6, R9, R10, R11 = 1 kΩ
R7 = optional (not included)
P1 = potentiometer 100 kΩ, linear
Capacitors
C1 = 22 µF 16V
C2, C4 = 10 nF
C3 = 150 pF
Miscellaneous
K1 = 4×1 pin socket
K2, K3 = 3.5 mm socket
Raspberry Pi Pico
pushbutton, angle mount
0.96" monochrome I²C OLED display
PCB 150292-1
This kit includes iFixit's widest assortment of bits, complete with every driver head you’ll need to tackle any repair or DIY project. It includes standard bits like Phillips and Flathead in a full range of sizes to handle everything from precision electronics repair to home DIY projects. And it wouldn’t be an iFixit bit set if it didn’t include all the exotic bits from Pentalobes for Apple iPhone and MacBook repair to Gamebits for your vintage Nintendo consoles.
All of the next-gen bit sets have been re-designed in order to maximize convenience and usability. The bit set lid is held in place with magnets to increase product lifespan (no more broken hinges or clasps) and also mounts to the back of the bit set case to keep it out of the way while you do your work. If you need help keeping your screws and parts organized, you can use the lid’s integrated sorting tray. The 4 mm bits have been adjusted and have now a longer neck for a deeper and more precise reach.
Toolkit Includes
Easy-to-Open Magnetized Case
Lid with Built-in Sorting Tray
4 mm Aluminum Bit Driver
1/4' Aluminum Bit Driver
4 mm Screwdriver Bits
Phillips - 000, 00, 0
Flathead - 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5 mm
Torx - T2, T3, T4, T5
Torx Security - TR6, TR7, TR8
Pentalobe - P2, P5, P6
JIS - 000, 00, 0, 1
Hex - 0.7, 0.9, 1.3, 1.5 mm
Hex Security - 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5 mm
Tri-point - Y000, Y00, Y0, Y1
Nut driver - 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5 mm
Gamebit - 3.8, 4.5 mm
Spanner - 4, 6
Triangle - 2, 2.2, 2.6, 3 mm
Oval Bit
iPhone Standoff Bit
Sim Eject Bit
Magnetic Pickup Bit
1/4' Screwdriver Bits
Phillips - 1, 2, 3
Flathead - 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 mm
Hex Security - 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 mm
Hex Security SAE - 1/8, 9/64, 5/32, 3/16, 7/32, 1/4
Pozidriv - PZ0, PZ1, PZ2, PZ3
Torq-set - 6, 8, 10
Spanner - 8, 10, 12
Square - 0, 1, 2, 3
Spline - M5, M6, M8
Torx Security - TR9, TR10, TR15, TR20, TR25, TR27, TR30, TR35, TR40
Tri-wing 1, 2, 3, 4
Clutch 1, 2, 3
Schrader Valve
Hook Drive
1/4' to 4 mm Adapter
1/4' Driver to 1/4' Socket
1/4' Driver to 3/8' Socket
1/4' Socket to 1/4' Driver
Specifications
Bit Metal: 6150 Steel
Driver Material: Anodized Aluminum
Case Material: ABS
Foam: EVA
The Smart USB Soldering Iron Kit is a compact, cordless solution designed for precision and portability. Featuring intelligent three-speed temperature control (300-450°C) with an easy-to-read LED display, it heats up in just 10 seconds and melts solder in as little as 6 seconds.
The 1000 mAh rechargeable battery delivers up to 30 minutes of continuous use, making it ideal for quick repairs, electronics projects, and DIY tasks. With a plug-and-play, replaceable tip and a high-temperature-resistant insulated shell, it’s safe, user-friendly, and perfect for both beginners and professionals on the go.
Features
Three-Speed Intelligent Temperature Adjustment: Features an LED display screen with adjustable temperatures between 300-450°C (572-842°F). Easily switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit.
Integrated Plug-In Soldering Iron Tip: Plug-and-play design. The tip can be replaced by simply unscrewing it, ensuring quick and convenient operation.
Safe and Durable Design: High-temperature-resistant, insulated shell for enhanced safety during use.
Battery Capacity: Equipped with a rechargeable 1000 mAh battery that supports up to 30 minutes of continuous operation on a full charge – ideal for everyday tasks.
Efficient Performance: 8 W power with an integrated heating core for rapid heat-up. Melts tin in just 6 seconds, providing excellent thermal conductivity.
Easy to Use: After powering on via USB, set your desired temperature. The soldering iron heats up in 10 seconds. Once finished, place the tip on the stand—it cools down within 1 minute. Perfect for beginners, hobbyists, basic home repairs, and training engineers.
Cordless Innovation: This cordless soldering kit includes a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, eliminating the need for cables. Versatile use for circuit board soldering, electrical repairs, jewelry making, metal crafts, computer maintenance, and DIY projects.
Specifications
Adjustable Temperature: 300-450°C (572-842°F)
Tin Melting Time: <15 seconds
Working Voltage: 5 V
Power Output: 8 W
Battery Capacity: 1000 mAh
Auto Sleep Function: Activates after 10 minutes of inactivity
Charging Time: Approx. 90 minutes
Battery Life: Up to 30 minutes continuous use
Charging Interface: USB-C
Main Material: Aluminum alloy
Dimensions: 190 x 16 mm (7.4 x 0.6")
Included
1x USB Soldering Iron
1x Soldering Tip
1x Soldering Rosin
1x Soldering Iron Holder (with Sponge)
1x USB-C Charging Cable
1x Solder Wire
1x Storage Box
The Elektor Super Servo Tester can control servos and measure servo signals. It can test up to four servo channels at the same time.
The Super Servo Tester comes as a kit. All the parts required to assemble the Super Servo Tester are included in the kit. Assembling the kit requires basic soldering skills. The microcontroller is already programmed.
The Super Servo Tester features two operating modes: Control/Manual and Measure/Inputs.
In Control/Manual mode the Super Servo Tester generates control signals on its outputs for up to four servos or for the flight controller or ESC. The signals are controlled by the four potentiometers.
In Measure/Inputs the Super Servo Tester measures the servo signals connected to its inputs. These signals may come from for instance an ESC, a flight controller, or the receiver or another device. The signals are also routed to the outputs to control the servos or the flight controller or ESC. The results are shown on the display.
Specifications
Operating modes
Control/Manual & Measure/Inputs
Channels
3
Servo signal inputs
4
Servo signal outputs
4
Alarm
Buzzer & LED
Display
0.96' OLED (128 x 32 pixels)
Input voltage on K5
7-12 VDC
Input voltage on K1
5-7.5 VDC
Input current
30 mA (9 VDC on K5, nothing connected to K1 and K2)
Dimensions
113 x 66 x 25 mm
Weight
60 g
Included
Resistors (0.25 W)
R1, R3
1 kΩ, 5%
R2, R4, R5, R6, R7, R9, R10
10 kΩ, 5%
R8
22 Ω, 5%
P1, P2, P3, P4
10 kΩ, lin/B, vertical potentiometer
Capacitors
C1
100 µF 16 V
C2
10 µF 25 V
C3, C4, C7
100 nF
C5, C6
22 pF
Semiconductors
D1
1N5817
D2
LM385Z-2.5
D3
BZX79-C5V1
IC1
7805
IC2
ATmega328P-PU, programmed
LED1
LED, 3 mm, red
T1
2N7000
Miscellaneous
BUZ1
Piezo buzzer with oscillator
K1, K2
2-row, 12-way pinheader, 90°
K5
Barrel jack
K4
1-row, 4-way pin socket
K3
2-row, 6-way boxed pinheader
S1
Slide switch DPDT
S2
Slide switch SPDT
X1
Crystal, 16 MHz
28-way DIP socket for IC2
Elektor PCB
OLED display, 0.96', 128 x 32 pixels, 4-pin I²C interface
Links
Elektor Magazine
Elektor Labs
Learn the basics of electronics by assembling manually your Arduino Uno, become familiar with soldering by mounting every single component, and then unleash your creativity with the only kit that becomes a synth!
The Arduino Make-Your-Uno kit is really the best way to learn how to solder. And when you are done, the packaging allows you to build a synth and make your music.
A kit with all the components to build your very own Arduino Uno and audio synthesizer shield.
The Make-Your-Uno kit comes with a complete set of instructions in a dedicated content platform. This includes video material, a 3D interactive viewer for following detailed instructions, and how to program your board once it is finished.
This kit contains:
Arduino Make-Your-Uno
1x Make-Your-Uno PCB
1x USB C Serial adapter Board
7x Resistors 1k Ohm
2x Resistors 10k Ohm
2x Resistors 1M Ohm
1x Diode (1N4007)
1x 16 MHz Crystal
4x Yellow LEDs
1x Green LED
1x Push-Button
1x MOSFET
1x LDO (3.3 V)
1x LDO (5 V)
3x Ceramic capacitors (22pF)
3x Electrolytic capacitors (47uF)
7x Polyester capacitors (100nF)
1x Socket for ATMega 328p
2x I/O Connectors
1x Connector header 6 pins
1x Barrel jack connector
1x ATmega 328p Microcontroller
Arduino Audio Synth
1x Audio Synth PCB
1x Resistor 100k Ohm
1x Resistor 10 Ohm
1x Audio amplifier (LM386)
1x Ceramic capacitors (47nF)
1x Electrolytic capacitors (47uF)
1x Electrolytic capacitors (220uF)
1x Polyester capacitor (100nF)
4x connectors pin header
6x potentiometer 10k Ohm with plastic knobs
Spare parts
2x Electrolytic capacitors (47uF)
2x Polyester capacitor (100nF)
2x Ceramic capacitors (22pF)
1x Push-Button
1x Yellow LEDs
1x Green LED
Mechanical parts
5x Spacers 12 mm
11x Spacers 6 mm
5x screw nuts
2x screws 12 mm
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